How to Hang Wallpaper Borders in the Middle of a Painted Wall

A wallpaper border can be a quick and removable substitute for a dado or chair rail. As such, it can enhance the room design plan and add a bit of color and interest to an otherwise flat wall.

Measure

Measure from the floor to the required top edge of the border. Mark this distance every foot across the wall using a self-erasing fabric-marking pencil. Use a long straightedge such as a yardstick or 6-foot board to connect the marks. Measure the width of the wall and cut the border to this measurement plus 4 inches. Ensure the left end of the paper is cut straight.

Apply

Prepare the border paper according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Align the top edge of the border to the drawn line and press the border to the wall, starting with the left corner. Apply the border across the wall. Fold the border, right sides together, where it meets the right wall corner. Cut off the excess border, using a utility knife and straightedge. Finish the border application according to the package directions.

About the Author

Linda Erlam started writing educational manuals in 1979. She also writes a biweekly newspaper column, "Design Dilemmas," in the "Lakeshore News" and has been published in "Design and Drapery Pro" magazine. Erlam is a graduate of the Sheffield School of Interior Design and is a practicing interior decorator and drapery workroom operator.